From August 13th – 15th, Rum United held 3 events for ‘Rum Day DC‘ around Washington, D.C. connecting new and old rum lovers in honor of National Rum Day, which is August 16th every year. Rum United’s goal is to “highlight Rum’s great history, bring awareness to its diversity and share our love for Rum with the masses.”
Rum Day DC’s rum sponsors featured rums from around the world including Papa’s Pilar Rum (U.S.), Mount Gay Rum (Barbados), Chairman’s Reserve and Admiral Rodney (both from St. Lucia), Atlantico Rum (Dominican Republic) and Lyon Distilling (U.S.).
On Thursday, August 13th, rum lovers gathered on the rooftop of Graham Hotel in Georgetown for #RumNSmoke. Guests were treated to specialty rum cocktails with Papa’s Pilar rum, hors d’oeuvres and cigars. It was a nice evening, connecting with various people not normally in my social circle, while overlooking all of DC from the hotel’s rooftop. This was my first time at the boutique hotel but I loved that #RumNSmoke was there and not at an overused venue in the city.
The Rum Runner Party Bus was on Friday. Passengers went on a bar crawl through DC’s hottest spots while enjoying bottomless speciality rum cocktails. The stops were Provision 14, Zelou Lounge and Old Engine 12. While I didn’t attend, this sounds like an awesome throwback to my college days, but with better cocktails!
Held at Blind Whino on Saturday, #RumBQue was the final event of the Rum Day DC events. Guests enjoyed complimentary barbecue provided by DCity Smokehouse (I’m obsessed with their food), rum punches crafted by members of the U.S. Bartenders Guild (DC Chapter) and more cigars. My favorite rum punch, “Poppy’s Summer Punch,” featured 3-year old Papa’s Pilar rum, watermelon, lime, grapefruit and ginger juices. The DJ kept the music flowing and everyone enjoyed the barbecue-like atmosphere.
Rum United hosts rum-centric events across the U.S. While this is my first time attending Rum Day DC, it certainly won’t be my last. It’s a great concept, especially for those interested in learning more about rum. For more information, check out Rum Day DC. See ya next year!